Looking for a career where you can make a real difference?
Public health might be for you.
Public health professionals work every day to help people and communities stay healthy, safe, and strong. From preventing disease and responding to emergencies to supporting children and families and creating healthier environments, public health is about improving lives – right where you live.
Public health careers exist in every county and community across New York State, which means you can make an impact close to home.
Why Choose a Career in Public Health?
Public health offers meaningful work, flexibility, and a wide range of career paths.
Impact
Make a direct difference in the health and well-being of your community.
Benefits
County health departments offer competitive benefits and retirement packages.
Flexibility
Public health careers span science, technology, education, communications, policy, and more.
Work Culture
Public health teams are collaborative, mission-driven, and passionate about helping others.
Learn From Public Health Professionals
Want to know what these careers really look like day to day? Hear directly from public health professionals across New York State about what they do, why they chose public health, and what makes their work meaningful.
There’s a Public Health Career for Every Interest
Public health needs people with all kinds of skills – and you don’t need to know exactly what you want to do yet.
Whether you love math, science, writing, technology, art, or something else, public health offers many paths you can explore over time.
What Can You Do in Public Health?
Your interests can lead to many different public health roles.
Click on your favorite subject to explore related careers.
Explore Public Health Careers
Click on a career to learn more about what each role does and how it helps communities.
Thinking about College?
Explore public health programs available across New York State.
Interested in a Different Major?
Many different majors can lead to a career in public health. Explore how your interests can translate into real-world impact.
Click on a major to discover what you can do in public health with that degree.
Working in Public Health in New York State
Many jobs in county health departments are filled through the civil service process, which helps ensure fair and competitive hiring for public service roles. This process may include submitting an application, taking an exam, and being placed on an eligibility list.
While civil service hiring can take longer than private-sector jobs, it comes with long-term benefits – including job stability, opportunities for advancement, and the chance to serve your community.
A public health career through civil service offers more than a paycheck. You’ll gain:
- Comprehensive benefits
- A pension plan
- Career growth opportunities
- The pride of making a difference where you live
Want to Learn More?
Visit Public Health Works!
